U.S. DEPARTMENT OF STATE

Office of the Spokesperson

______________________________________________________________________________

For Immediate Release                                                                                           October 23, 2013

2013/1284

 

MEDIA NOTE

 

Today, the United States and Israel convened the latest round of their Strategic Dialogue at the State Department in Washington, DC.  The Strategic Dialogue, the highest level regularly-scheduled diplomatic meeting between the two countries, highlights the strong partnership that binds Israel and the United States. Deputy Secretary of State William Burns and Israel’s Minister for Strategic and Intelligence Affairs responsible for International Relations Yuval Steinitz headed the respective delegations.

 

The two sides engaged in a wide-ranging discussion of regional threats, challenges, and opportunities where close coordination is essential.  They discussed trends and developments associated with the historic changes occurring in the region, as well as ways that  the United States and Israel can further enhance bilateral ties and advance peace in the region.

 

Both sides reiterated their determination to prevent Iran from acquiring a nuclear weapon.   The two delegations reviewed developments in Syria, including efforts to eliminate Syria’s chemical weapon program, as well as threats to regional stability from terrorist groups such as Lebanese Hizballah and Hamas.

 

The two sides agreed to continue to consult closely on regional issues and to meet again next year in Israel to continue their dialogue.

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